Briefs for March 18

Police: Woman arrested after obstructing officers

A 41-year-old Phippsburg woman was arrested Thursday after police said she resisted arrest and obstructed officers who were trying to remove two horses from her property. Police said the horses are malnourished.

Routt County Sheriff John Warner said Friday that several officers went to Christie Chapman Fox's home Thursday morning to seize two pregnant mares that he said were severely malnourished. Sgt. Ray Birch said Fox's neighbors called the Sheriff's Office to report possible animal abuse violations concerning Fox's horses.

Warner said Fox was aggressive and uncooperative when officers searched her home and property. She was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a government operation, obstructing a police officer and resisting arrest.

The seized horses were taken to a place where they will be treated and cared for, Warner said. Birch said Fox has not been charged with animal abuse or neglect because the investigation is ongoing.

Fox posted a $750 bond and was released from Routt County Jail on Thursday afternoon. She is scheduled to appear in Routt County Court at 8:30 a.m. April 11.

Howelsen Hill Ski Area open until March 26

The Howelsen Hill Ski Area, which has been recognized as a Colorado pioneer ski area, will close for the season March 26. The Nordic and snowshoe trails will remain open, weather permitting, free of charge. For grooming updates, call 879-8552, ext. 739.